As Complicações do Acidente Vascular Encefálico na Reabilitação de Pacientes Reinternados" into English is "Complications of Stroke in the Rehabilitation of Readmitted Patients

Abstract

A Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) is characterized by an interruption of cerebral vascular flow, either ischemic or hemorrhagic, with various etiologies and predisposing factors resulting in physical, cognitive, and behavioral changes. A portion of affected individuals becomes unable to return to work, and in this context, the disease accounts for 40% of early retirements in Brazil, thus already being considered a public health issue. This study will highlight the complications of stroke in the rehabilitation of readmitted patients post-stroke, within the hospital setting. The methodology was structured based on a quantitative and descriptive study, where data were collected through a semi-structured interview with patients or their caregivers. The research was conducted in all hospital wards, and the questionnaire was administered from June to October 2014 to readmitted patients in a Public Teaching Hospital. The results showed that structural changes suffered by a post-stroke patient cause motor alterations such as muscle weakness and spasticity, which can restrict their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and social participation, making them physically dependent. Particularly, motor deficits in the upper limbs impact the quality of life, as they are essential in ADLs. In conclusion, identifying stroke complications is of significant interest for clinical practice, as it allows for the adoption of preventive strategies capable of minimizing the consequences of stroke, both for the patient and their caregiver